Sue Sheppard Memorial Handicap

Well short of his best on his last three starts; now returns to Class 6 company off a reduced mark but he has been done no favours by the draw.

Thrown in on his form for Jim Bolger but he has finished down the field in four runs for new connections, weakening over 7f and 6f; the return of a tongue tie may help, as will the drop into a Class 6, so not discounted back at 5f for the owners who took this race 12 months ago.

Came to hand early last year and he returns from a 168-day break off a mark just 1lb higher than for his Ripon win 11 months ago; the absence of cheekpieces tempers enthusiasm this time.

Successful at Newcastle in February (5f) off 2lb lower; solid effort next time and when down the field on his latest start it was over 6f; can't rule out back down in trip.

Twice made all at Beverley last summer (5f, good and good to firm); shaped as though the run was needed on his return at Wolverhampton 18 days ago; on a handy mark; considered.